National Museum of African American History and Culture.
1400 Constitution Ave, NW. Washington DC.
This is definitely not a typical building in Washington DC, but who said it had to be?
Inspired by the Yoruba Crown the building, the building was designed by Freelon-Adjave-Bonds and inaugurated on 2016 by former President Barack Obama.
Architect Adjave who was one of the project leaders wanted to establish a connection with African American roots: Africa. The sculpture of a Yoruba man wearing a three-tiered crown and being the Yoruba tribe one of the largest ethnics group in Nigeria was more than meaningful to establish that connection he wanted and give that punch to build "not another stone box with thing in it"
This building is not like any other Smithsonian museum. It is a place with its own soul. No matter if you are African American or not, you will feel different. The museum is based on three fundamentals, the history, the present and the future.
The interior has been carefully designed to keep the visitor’s attention during the whole visit. The whole circulation is designed to lift you up into the light that comes from the roof. This is basically the representation that African American never give up and always overcome.
It is not only a space to exhibit African American art and history. It is a monument, a large format sculpture, a memorial and a city icon right on the center of the National Mall.
It is a place that commemorate black history, a place where you can learn about the richness and diversity of the African American experience.
I can assure you that you won’t regret your visit.
I visited this museum twice so far, and I’ll most likely go again. There is so much to learn about African American culture that one visit won’t be enough. I agree with you.... people won’t regret that tour
ReplyDeleteSuch an extraordinary-- and important-- building! It should have been built a long time ago, but, hey, better late than never.
ReplyDeleteWhat a design concept-- a building fashioned to evoke an ancient African crown!
Only the Museum of the American Indian can measure up to this one, in concept and design, that is. On a National Mall brimming with architectural gems, this one is a welcome addition.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, thank you for highlighting the Yoruba crown in that top picture.
ReplyDeletegoing to Museum is not my cup of tea but as Ruth said there is a lot to learn about African American Culture and what better than go to a Museum.
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